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Helping your Child Navigate Therapy

Helping your Child Navigate Therapy
Helping your Child Navigate Therapy

What if my child refuses therapy?

It may come as no surprise: kids and teens don’t always feel like going to therapy. Whether your child is dealing with anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the journey of managing their mental health is complex, and resistance to treatment can be disheartening for parents and caregivers. However, it's important to approach this situation with empathy, understanding, and a strategic mindset.

First, it's essential for parents to recognize that some resistance to therapy is common, especially for young people whose days are filled with school, extracurriculars, homework, peers, and all the challenges of growing up. Adding another obligation to a kid, teen, or young adult’s schedule can be overwhelming, especially if they live with a condition such as anxiety, depression, or OCD. Many factors can contribute to reluctance, such as fear, stigma, or a lack of insight into their own struggles. Approaching the situation with sensitivity is key to establishing trust and fostering open communication.

Talking to your child about therapy

Engaging your child in an honest conversation about their concerns is a crucial step. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and fears without judgment. Acknowledge their perspective and validate their emotions. By doing so, you can gain insight into the specific barriers they face and address them collaboratively.

Explaining the benefits of therapy and psychiatric intervention can be extremely helpful. Research shows the positive impact these interventions can have on a young person's well-being. This is where the web comes in handy--you can search for therapy success stories to share with your child and find information about the therapeutic process. It’s also important to emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Demystifying the treatment can alleviate some of the apprehensions they may harbor.

Empowering your child to make decisions

Bring your child into the decision-making process regarding their treatment plan. Empower them by allowing them to have a say in selecting a therapist or psychiatrist. This sense of autonomy can contribute to a more positive and cooperative attitude towards therapy.

Finding the right care team

It’s important that your child’s mental health professional is a good fit for their unique personality and needs. If your child remains resistant, make sure that the therapist is trained and experienced in working with patients of your child’s age group. Also, consider seeking the expertise of a therapist experienced in working with resistant youth clients. They can employ specialized techniques to engage the child and establish rapport, paving the way for meaningful therapeutic work. In some instances, it can be helpful and appropriate for parents or caregivers to meet with the child’s mental health provider, even if the child is not attending the meeting. There are research-backed tools for parenting youth with anxiety, depression, and/or ADHD. Some research supports specific therapies for parents alone that, in turn, also improve youth behaviors and symptoms. 

Additionally, a multidisciplinary approach involving therapists, psychiatrists, and other healthcare providers may be beneficial. Coordinated efforts can address various aspects of your child's mental health, providing a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan.

Get support from the Center of Youth Mental Health

Remember, the path to mental health is not linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the process. Be patient, persistent, and compassionate. Mental health experts encourage parents to remain actively involved in their child's therapy journey, advocating for their well-being and offering unwavering support. NewYork-Presbyterian is here to help you navigate the challenges of resistance and work towards a brighter, healthier future for your child.

Get immediate help

SAMHSA helpline
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year mental health treatment referral.
800-662-HELP (4357)
Teen Link
Teen Link is a confidential and anonymous helpline for teens. Call or text between the hours of 6:00pm - 9:30pm. 866-833-6546
866-833-6546